The contingency situation in force in mainland Portugal, which has been in place since 15 September, has been extended to 23:59 on 14 October, in view of the increase in cases of Covid-19 recorded in recent weeks in the country.

Among the measures applied in the state of contingency is the limitation of gatherings to a maximum of 10 people, unless they belong to the same household, on public roads and in establishments and the prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages in service areas or at petrol stations.

The extension of the contingency status also implies a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages, from 8pm onwards, in retail establishments, including supermarkets, and a ban on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in outdoor spaces of catering establishments and bars after 8 pm, except in the context of a meal.

The opening hours of establishments remains by each individual local council and are based upon the favourable opinion from the local health authority and security forces. In restaurants, cafes and pastry shops located 300m from the schools, there is a maximum limit of four people per group, unless they belong to the same household.